Psalm 73

Psalm 73Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB)

BOOK III(Psalms 73–89)

Psalm 73

God’s Ways Vindicated

A psalm of Asaph.

1 God is indeed good to Israel,to the pure in heart.2 But as for me, my feet almost slipped;my steps nearly went astray.3 For I envied the arrogant;I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

4 They have an easy time until they die,[a]and their bodies are well fed.[b]5 They are not in trouble like others;they are not afflicted like most people.6 Therefore, pride is their necklace,and violence covers them like a garment.7 Their eyes bulge out from fatness;the imaginations of their hearts run wild.8 They mock, and they speak maliciously;they arrogantly threaten oppression.9 They set their mouths against heaven,and their tongues strut across the earth.10 Therefore His people turn to them[c]and drink in their overflowing words.[d]11 The wicked say, “How can God know?Does the Most High know everything?”12 Look at them—the wicked!They are always at ease,and they increase their wealth.

13 Did I purify my heartand wash my hands in innocence for nothing?14 For I am afflicted all day longand punished every morning.15 If I had decided to say these things aloud,I would have betrayed Your people.[e]16 When I tried to understand all this,it seemed hopeless[f]17 until I entered God’s sanctuary.Then I understood their destiny.18 Indeed, You put them in slippery places;You make them fall into ruin.19 How suddenly they become a desolation!They come to an end, swept away by terrors.20 Like one waking from a dream,Lord, when arising, You will despise their image.

21 When I became embitteredand my innermost being[g] was wounded,22 I was stupid and didn’t understand;I was an unthinking animal toward You.23 Yet I am always with You;You hold my right hand.24 You guide me with Your counsel,and afterward You will take me up in glory.[h]25 Who do I have in heaven but You?And I desire nothing on earth but You.26 My flesh and my heart may fail,but God is the strength[i] of my heart,my portion forever.27 Those far from You will certainly perish;You destroy all who are unfaithful to You.28 But as for me, God’s presence is my good.I have made the Lord God my refuge,so I can tell about all You do.

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